Stephen Stray

The MOD have confirmed the aircraft were dispatched to intercept an ‘unresponsive aircraft’.

An RAF spokesman said: “Quick reaction alert Typhoon aircraft were launched today from RAF Coningsby to identify an unresponsive civilian aircraft. Communications were re-established and the aircraft has been safely landed.”

It is understood the fighter jets were scrambled to intercept a flight from Paris into Newcastle Airport after it lost contact.

North Yorkshire Police also Tweeted to confirm the noise.

A message stated: “Confirmation from RAF that loud bangs heard across the county were sonic booms from RAF Typhoon jets. No cause for concern.”